The PlaceMakers PNBHS 1st XI played a midweek match against New Plymouth Boys’ High School as a part of the schools’ sporting exchange. After being defeated in a pre-season fixture, PNBHS were keen to show they were an improved and more cohesive opposition. PNBHS won this time around, beating NPBHS 3-1.
The bitterly cold weather welcomed both teams to Central Energy Trust Arena, where the game would take place on the artificial surface. PNBHS started the game with good pace and insistency. Making the most of the speedy surface, the ball was moved briskly by both teams. After an initial settling period, it was PNBHS who held most of the possession and had numerous attempts on goal. In the tenth minute, Xavier Coleman opened the scoring, drilling a ball cut-back, first by Ben Mori, then Jaiden Meyer. This set NPBHS into action, who made numerous attempts of their own and were rewarded midway through the half with a goal of their own.
The second half started with similar intensity. Both teams tussled to break the deadlock – NPBHS defenders having to make a desperation save after Jaiden Meyer beat the keeper but could not quite get the ball across the chalk. Cometh the hour, cometh the man. It took a long-range kick from Jayden Simpson and a defensive fumble to setup Ben Mori for his 50th goal for the PlaceMakers PNBHS 1st XI. Stepping around and over three defenders and the keeper, Ben broke the tie and put PNBHS in front. With ample time left for NPBHS to equalise, PNBHS began to manage the game, holding possession for long periods, however never ‘parking the bus’. It was after a period of 10+ phases that Jaiden Meyer made certain he was on the scorecard. From the same position as earlier in the half, Jaiden found the back of the net to seal the win.
Thank you to New Plymouth Boys’ High School for travelling down and joining us in the exchange. Thank you also to the families of the PNBHS 1st XI and Junior XI who welcomed the opposition players in billeting them. The PlaceMakers PNBHS 1st XI now look ahead to another midweek fixture, this time against St Pat’s Silverstream, as the Horizons Premiership games also continue Saturdays.
Please enjoy the highlights video from the game below
Thank you to our 1st XI Football Sponsors
